There were exciting scenes at Cooma Railway Station yesterday as NSW Railways Paybus FP11 roared back to life. Thanks to the efforts of Peter Duffy from Transport Heritage Australia, FP11 has taken another step towards it’s return to operation with a successful mechanical shakedown to test the primary systems and identify further maintenance work that is required.
Unfortunately, prior to the security fencing being installed around the railway precinct at Cooma, FP11 was a victim of vandalism on multiple occasions resulting in a number of broken windows and substantial graffiti around the exterior.
Over recent months, some of our volunteers have commenced work on the restoration of the body and interior of FP11, including a full interior clean to remove broken glass and debris, as well as replacement of seating and preparation of new glass panels to replace the broken windows. Once the mechanical and body overhaul is completed, the exterior of FP11 will receive some love with bodywork and a full repaint.
The Paybus is such a unique railway vehicle and it will be great to see it out on track again, albeit with with passengers this time.
🙋♀️ Did you know? – While our FP11 was a typical Paybus, FP13 was built as a passenger vehicle to service the Cooma – Bombala section of the line, replacing the railmotor service as passenger numbers on the section declined.
If you would like to get involved and help with the return of tourist trains to the Monaro, please visit our website:
👉 https://www.cmrailway.org.au/get-involved/
We have a diverse range of projects and volunteer roles to suit a volunteers of all ages.